First, just to clarify, it's pathologists' assistant and not pathology
assistant.  You can get great info at www.pathologistsassistants.org

CLEA '88 lists the requirements for non-pathologists grossing.  Grossing is
considered high-complexity testing even if it's a punch biopsy.  CLEA '88
states "On or before April 24 1995 (I) be a high school graduate or
equivalent; and (b) have documentation of training appropriate for the test
performed before analyzing patient specimens"................After that date
it requires an associate degree in a biological or chemical science or medical
laboratory technology  -or- qualify as a medical technologist with a
bachelor's degree from an accredited institution  -or- earned a bachelor's
degree in a chemical, physical, biologic or clinical laboratory science.
ref. CLEA '88 493.1489

Also CAP requires a written instruction detailing what specimens may be
grossed with direct vs indirect pathologists' observation.  Direct means that
the pathologist literally watches over your shoulder while you gross the
specimen.  Indirect means that he is readily available to consult.

I hope this helps,
Charles R. Embrey Jr. PA(AAPA), HT(ASCP)
Carle Clinic
Urbana, IL